The Talking Machine Forum — For All Antique Phonographs & Recordings

Hello,
I am working on a Columbia Model A cylinder Phonograph. The motor is in good shape except for one of the brass gears. The second gear coming off the governor is a small brass one and has split ( see picture). This causes the motor to click loudly when run at full wind and bind and stop when the spring runs down a bit. This small brass gear is pressed on the splined end of the steel shaft. My thought was to have someone carefully heat up the gear with a touch and then use a gear puller to remove the gear. You could then place the gear in a vice and gently press the split gap back together. Once pressed together the gear could be silver soldered. Does this course of action make sense?? I have not done anything like this before and so was hoping that you guys could recommend a Phonograph repairman who could tackle this problem for me??
thanks
Pete

That is exactly how I repair clock pinions that often split on the center wheel arbor, especially on American made Gilbert cocks.

BillF

Maybe one of the dealers has a replacement gear? I never seen too many split gears on a Columbia, seems to be more of a Edison problem, but I suppose all machines can have that problem. Now I am thinking about selling my Columbia BK:-(

Call Al Meekins musicbox shop. Al's craftsmen are VERY talented. His website is gearsmade.com

Send in the gear, and he can replicate it. As far as price.......well, it isn't going to be under $50 in this case, but his work is top notch.

I can help you. PM sent.

Hello,
I have located an original replacement gear cluster from George Vollema. Thanks also to Jerry who kindly offered to make an exact replacement gear.
Pete